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08 January 2026

Finland implements heightened requirements for permanent residence permits

Effective 8 January 2026, Finland implemented stricter eligibility requirements relating to permanent residence permit applications. The main changes include (i) increasing the required period of continuous residence for holders of A-permits and Brexit permits who seek to obtain permanent residence from four to six years; (ii) requiring applicants to demonstrate proficiency in the Finnish or Swedish language, and provide evidence of two years of work experience in Finland; and (iii) allowing individuals who complete a master’s, postgraduate or bachelor’s degree in Finland to qualify for permanent residence without having to reside in Finland for six years, provided they held a valid residence permit during their studies, and currently possess “developing” language skills in Finnish or Swedish.

A Tax Alert prepared by EY's People Advisory Services, and attached below, provides additional details.

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Attachment

Full text of Tax Alert

Document ID: 2026-0144

 
 

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